Applicant Tracking System

If you are looking for a new job, chances are that you are applying to a lot of jobs online. Job that you see on various job boards. But what happens after you submit your profile? Most of the time nothing good. The ATS (Applicant Tracking System) usually is programmed to scan for keywords on your resume. If your resume doesn’t match the specification, it doesn’t get seen by HR. How can you navigate this? There are a few ways to navigate the ATS. When you are looking at the job description they have skills listed. Take these skills, are all of them listed on your resume? If not you want to list them. However, only list them if you have worked with those skills and that you meet qualifications for. There are also sites that will tell you how well does your resume match the job description. Now what? You have applied, what next? Keep a master tracking list of the company and position you applied for. Find the recruiters for this organization on LinkedIn. Send them a short message with your resume. “Hello Recruiter Name, I applied to the role listed on your website. I understand how busy you are,  and don’t want to waste your time. Are you the right recruiter for that role? If not can you point me in the right direction? I am job title professional with 5 years of experience in X, and 3 years of experience in doing Y. The job description says the position requires 3 years of experience in X and Y. I am looking for a salary $$$. I can be reached at PHONE NUMBER or EMAIL. I would love the opportunity to showcase my skills more. I have attached my resume to this message for your convenience. If you have any questions, please let me know.” Keep your message short and sweet. Other things you can do is head over to your local meetups. Connect with people, see if you can find a recruiter or manager there. Find an agency recruiter, see if they can help you get in with the right company. We live in an age of data, just applying to the job through a website is no longer enough.